HPV vaccine campaigner Laura Brennan’s courage and kindness has been remembered today as her loved ones bade her a final farewell.
The 26-year-old cervical cancer victim was laid to rest privately in Drumcliffe Cemetery this morning with just her family and closest friends in attendance, before a public remembrance service this afternoon.
Laura Brennan’s words, as uttered at today’s Rememberence Service by Fr. Pat Malone, saw her campaigning for the HPV vaccine continue, even in death.
She was warmly remembered today as a powerful advocate, who spent her final months working to prevent any other deaths like hers.
But she was remembered too, as a daughter, sister and friend, in a service that included both laughter and tears.
The gifts offered at the altar in Ennis Cathedral included a photo of her beloved dog, Bailey, a picture of her family and friends, a Clare jersey to mark her GAA days and even a detention slip from her time in St Flannan’s College
A song from Laura’s favourite musical, The Greatest Showman, also formed part of this afternoon’s service.
Laura’s brother Fergal reflected on her final weeks and how she tried to bring peace to her loved ones.
Those in attendance today included aides de camp for the President and Taoiseach, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council Michael Begley, Health Minister Simon Harris and RTÉ presenter Ryan Tubridy.
Earlier, in the Dáil, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said Laura Brennan had saved countless lives with her campaigning, and as he brought his homily to an end, Fr. Malone spread her powerful message once more
